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Why is my senior dog staggering, falling, or laying down on walks?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 10 years and 11 months old | 25 lbs

What could be the cause of staggering around and falling or laying down in the middle of a walk around the neighborhood? She is otherwise fine but on the last theee walks this has happened in about the same place down our street. Our other dogs have not had any issues.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 25th, 2020

This could be due to something serious such as heart disease. Exercise intolerance is one of the first signs of heart disease, and it can be common in senior dogs. I'd have Poopsie seen by a vet for this problem. If she does have heart disease, the vet can manage her symptoms with medication. Best of luck.

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